How the ABC is run

Election Coverage Review Committee (ECRC)

Under Section 79A of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation Act 1983, the ABC may determine, subject to the Act, to what extent and in what manner it will broadcast political matter. The ABC Board has determined that free broadcasting time shall be allocated to political parties during election campaigns for announcements of party policy. The criteria for eligibility are available in the ABC Board’s policy statement. Production Guidelines are issued for each federal, state and territory election and provided to parties eligible for an allocation of free broadcast time.

The Election Coverage Review Committee (ECRC) is constituted each time a federal, state or territory election is called and supervises the allocation of free broadcast time on radio and television for eligible political parties. It also monitors and advises on election coverage in accordance with the Editorial Policies. Guidance for staff is made available during the course of each election.